Latest Insights

The top 3 ways money probably didn’t make you happy in 2025… and the 3 ways it might in 2026

You’ve probably heard the saying, “money can’t buy happiness.” But for most of us it achieves something almost as valuable: it buys peace of mind.

Research consistently shows that financial stress is a common part of everyday life. With ongoing pressure from living costs and economic uncertainty, many households regularly worry about money, with around 70% of New Zealanders saying they’re concerned about money daily, weekly or monthly

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The top 3 ways money probably didn’t make you happy in 2025… and the 3 ways it might in 2026
MacDonald Wealth Summer Update

MacDonald Wealth Summer Update

Following a volatile but generally profitable first three quarters of the year, the majority of markets delivered further gains over the final three months of 2025.

International share markets provided the strongest gains, with the New Zealand and Australian share markets taking a back seat over the quarter. Similarly, with global interest rates having receded from their post-Covid peaks, returns from fixed income assets delivered in line with expectations – moderately positive.

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Financial Planning for Your Retirement

Financial Planning for Your Retirement

Planning for retirement is a crucial step toward ensuring financial security in your later years. A key part of this process is determining your "retirement number"—the amount of savings required to maintain your desired lifestyle.

Understanding this number helps shape your savings strategy and investment decisions, guiding you toward a comfortable and secure retirement. 

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Why (and how) to keep your insurance policies during tough times

Why (and how) to keep your insurance policies during tough times

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You can’t put a number on happiness

You can’t put a number on happiness

“What is your number?” That is the catch phrase of a popular advertisement that runs and re-runs amongst financial advising companies.

These types of campaigns are popular as many people will have a jolt of panic at some point just past mid-life, where they think, “Will I have enough for my retirement? I’d better get prepared.” Having a target ‘number’ can help you to understand just how big the mountain you must climb, really is.

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